Page 8 of Resist

“Smartest thing you’ve said ever.” Dash drapes his arm around me, and we follow Strike through the crowd. I force a smile, accepting drinks and being dragged into conversations, but I continue to glance outside, wondering if he will take her or if he’s just playing along for the cameras.

Is anything we share real, or is it just an act?

The blonde, Sash, leans closer to me, her eyes dilated with either drugs or alcohol. She’s an actress starring in some hit book remake, and it’s obvious she loves being the center of attention. She homed in on us when we found ourselves sitting on the couch, surrounded by people vying for our attention. It almost feels like blades are aimed at us, carving us into little bite-sized pieces for their own enjoyment.

“So you and Fox . . . are you a thing?” she asks with a secretive giggle. “It’s cool if you are. Hell, I’d even let you share me.”

The idea of us sharing her makes me sick. It would mean ruining something so real and perfect.

“We are . . . friends,” I answer lamely, the word sounding pathetic even to me.

Have Fox and I ever been just friends?

I thought there was something between us, but maybe I was wrong.

“Oh.” She giggles again, leaning into me. “It’s totally okay. We’ve all experimented,” she whispers. “Anything goes in Hollywood. Besides, the course I went to for sensitivity told me it’s all the rage these days to be open and experimenting.” She nods. “It would be a shame, though. You are both so hot.”

I need another fucking drink.

I nod tightly and go to stand when Fox appears, happy and relaxed. “Hey, there you guys are.” He offers us all beers, and I accept one, holding the bottle tightly. My knuckles turn white from the force as I eye him. Reign Harrow isn’t with him, but he’s been gone awhile.

Did they hook up? She’s engaged, but it doesn’t seem to stop people in this crowd. Things like commitment and boundries mean nothing to them, and everything is a game, even people’s feelings.

I try to bite my tongue, but it spills out like word vomit.

I need to know.

“Where have you been?” I ask, my voice accusatory, and the looks I get make me plaster on a smile. “You are missing all the fun!” I tack on, sounding overly joyful.

Fox’s eyebrow arches, and he eyes me curiously. “Just getting some fresh air.”

I want to snap,Liar!

He sits on the other side of the blonde, the only free seat, and I force myself to smile at the conversation. I make myself laugh and act happy to give them what they want and so I’m not labeled as moody or problematic. These people can make or break a career, and yeah, it’s a party, but it’s also a chance for us to network and find our place. I can’t spend it being bitter and jealous.

I glance at Fox to see Sash’s attention is now on him, her hand stroking his chest. He doesn’t seem to mind as he smiles at her as they talk.

“Ryker?” someone prompts, and it’s clear it’s not the first time they have called my name.

“Sorry, what?” I grin, turning back.

“Are you guys playing any gigs soon?” the person asks.

“Oh, I’m not sure. We haven’t received our schedule yet.”

“Oh.” They share a look. “Have fun with that.” They laugh. “You’ll miss the time when you were nobodies. Trust me, the schedules are killer.”

“Right.” I smile tightly.

I won’t regret it. This is everything we wanted—fame, recognition, and the chance to play our music for thousands . . . .

I suddenly feel hollow at the thought.

“Can I take a drink?” Sash’s syrupy sweet voice draws my attention, and I see her reaching for Fox’s beer.

He offers her the bottle with an arched brow, but before she can take it, I snatch it and wrap my lips around the rim where his just were. I down it before wiping my mouth. “Sorry, I don’t like to share.” I wink at her as she blinks, looking between us before forcing a tight smile onto her face.

Fox eyes me, frowning, then glances at her. “Want me to get you a drink?”

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